Basil Holy (Ocimum sanctum)

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Basil Holy (Ocimum sanctum)

Closely related to culinary basil, Holy basil is known as tulsi in South Asia and is an important sacred plant in Hinduism.

Growing Tips

Choose a sunny site with well-drained soil, amend with well-rotted manure or compost.

Use

The essential oil from Holy Basil contains a compound called eugenol which has antiseptic activity. It can kill germs such as bacteria, reduce inflammation and deter insects. Ayurvedic medical literature says that Holy Basil is an effective treatment for snake bites. It is also used to treat many skin conditions as well as coughs, bronchitis and diabetes. It is can be taken as a drink with lemon juice or cardamom.

Herb Attributes

Harvest

Regularly, the more you harvest the more it will produce. If kept warm and harvested often you may even get 10 months worth of Basil leaves.